Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer to retire after 33 years on the job

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer has announced that he will retire from his role within the next 12 months, stating that the new Microsoft strategy will require a CEO with more long term potential.

He said “there is never a perfect time for this type of transition, but now is the right time. We have embarked on a new strategy with a new organisation and we have an amazing Senior Leadership Team.” Billmer was originally hired by Bill Gates himself back in 1980, but quickly made his way through the ranks to the position he is now leaving.

This announcement has been rumoured to be the consequence of a rather negative year for Microsoft. The launch of Windows 8 was met with large amounts of negativity and criticism, as was the original unveil of their next generation console the Xbox One. Their Windows Service tablets also failed to knock the iPad of its podium. These results may have been the final straw for Ballmer.

He expressed his love for the company by saying “Microsoft is an amazing place, I love this company. I love the way we helped invent and popularize computing and the PC. I love the bigness and boldness of our bets. I love our people and their talent and our willingness to accept and embrace their range of capabilities, including their quirks.

“Microsoft has all its best days ahead. Know you are part of the best team in the industry and have the right technology assets. We cannot and will not miss a beat in these transitions. I am focused and driving hard and know I can count on all of you to do the same. Let’s do ourselves proud.”

I think I can safely say that we all wish Ballmer the best, and thank him for giving us some of the greatest products to enter our homes.

Hi! I'm Ben, an aspiring video game journalist and general beast when it comes to video games (PC and Xbox). Video games are my life, and I'm studying Journalism at the University of Lincoln. I also do a bit of blogging and YouTube commentating on the side, hopefully developing these soon in the future.
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